Keeping track ...

Can unions adapt?

August 30, 1999

By CompiledSara Steindorf

UNION MEMBERSHIP DIPS

Labor unionism in the US peaked in the mid 1950s. At that time about 30 percent of the work force was unionized. The figure stood at 14 percent in 1998. And as the total civilian work force continues to increase, the rate of union membership will fall further behind, according to the Public Service Research Foundation. The main reason: a shift away from manufacturing, says the International Labor Organization.

But at the same time, labor experts say unions are working to broaden their reach in order to adapt to the growing impact of high tech, global trade, and working women.